India–EU FTA To Unlock Major Growth Opportunities For India’s Plastics Industry: PlastIndia Foundation

New Delhi, Jan 28 (KNN) The PlastIndia Foundation, representing India’s plastics industry, has welcomed the India–European Union (EU) Free Trade Agreement (FTA), describing it as a strategic step expected to enhance bilateral trade, investment, and technological collaboration.

Market Opportunities and Export Growth

PlastIndia Foundation President Ravish Kamath said the FTA opens new growth avenues for India’s plastics and petrochemicals sector by improving market access, reducing tariff and non-tariff barriers, and promoting innovation-led manufacturing.

“The India–EU FTA will strengthen India’s position as a global manufacturing and export hub for plastics and allied products. It will facilitate greater integration of Indian industry with European value chains, promote sustainable materials, and enable technology transfer—especially in recycling, circular economy solutions, and advanced polymer applications,” he added.

Currently, the European Union is India’s second-largest export destination for plastics, with exports valued at around USD 3.7 billion. Industry estimates indicate an untapped potential of nearly USD 9 billion, which the FTA could unlock. 

“This landmark agreement is expected to drive multifold growth for the sector by enhancing competitiveness, expanding market access, and encouraging higher value-added exports. At present, our total plastic exports stand at USD 10 billion in 2025,” Kamath said.

Strategic and Industrial Impact

Kamath noted that the agreement is expected to drive growth in value-added plastic products, attract foreign direct investment, and generate employment across the sector, while supporting initiatives such as Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat.

The FTA also provides Indian manufacturers, particularly MSMEs, an opportunity to enhance quality standards and adopt global best practices, strengthening competitiveness in international markets.

Kamath reiterated, “The Foundation looks forward to working closely with policymakers and stakeholders to ensure smooth implementation of the agreement and to maximise its benefits for the Indian plastics industry.” 

(KNN Bureau)